Q & A with Outgoing BCA-USA Chief Whip

PROFILES IN SERVICE: BCA-USA

Q & A WITH OUTGOING BCA-USA CHIEF WHIP MA ANDIN FOLABIT (BCA-USA CHIEF WHIP 2014 – 2018)

In 2014, Ma Andin Folabit of BCA’s Eastern Chapter was elected as the chief whip of BCA-USA. In the last four years she has gone on to leave her mark on the position and the organization. Known for combining great wit and humility while bringing order to BCA meetings, Ma Andin endeared herself to many on the National Executive Committee and the organization as a whole. Along the way, she also introduced new jargon to the organization by using the phrase “lastminutedotcom” in reference to the tendency by some members to take action only at the last minute. Here she reflects on her time in office.

BCA-USA Mirror: Tell us when you became involved in BCA and why you decided to run for office.

Answer: I attended my first BCA convention in Atlanta in May 2007. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting folks from back home, and it reminded me of my motherland, my beloved Bali-Nyonga. The event was an encapsulating reminder of our beautiful cultural heritage. I soon after registered to become a member of BCA. I had always been part of similar groups back in Cameroon. I felt welcomed and felt that I had something to offer the group and my kin folk. In 2014, after much encouragement and support, I felt able to run for the post of Protocol/ Chief whip, a post that embodies bringing order and serving. I am honored to be part of BCA. BCA-USA Mirror: It’s been four years since you were elected Chief Whip. What has the experience been like for you?

Answer: It’s been a long time! The experience has been a good one and very interesting. I have been able to talk with many people and got to know them, something which wouldn’t have been possible if I were just a member. I have had some very fun

Ma Andin Folabit times and have memories I will always cherish. Most importantly, I have learnt that everyone has an opinion and can justify their reasoning for their action. I have learnt to be more accepting of differences, to be patient and to be less judgmental. It has however, not been without its challenges and controversies. There is no role in the world that does not attract such, unless one was ineffective at that role.

BCA-USA Mirror: What did you learn about yourself and about BCA-USA during that time?

Answer: I am a light hearted person and simple by nature. I have learnt to be hard and strict at times, but always fair. I also learned that BCA is not just a family meeting as some people thought it was. It is a place where every son and daughter of Bali Nyonga should belong and if possible join the executive. I encourage anyone to join the executive because there is no experience too little to share towards the development of our association. BCA is growing and there is always room for new and fresh ideas.

BCA-USA Mirror: What did you enjoy about your tenure as Chief Whip of BCA?

Answer: I enjoyed the fact that I make people laugh, though they are being brought to order. I enjoyed attending all BCA events and usually prioritized the events. I also love the fun times

BCA-USA Mirror: What are some of the challenges you encountered during your time as a leader of this organization?

Answer: Nothing good comes without challenges. Joggling work commitments, family demands and BCA conference calls, committee meetings, etc. isn’t easy. But where there is a will, there is always a way. Because events are planned well in advance, I was able to make seamless joggles at times. It is time demanding, but time well spent and fulfilling. BCA-USA Mirror: What advice do you have for whoever is elected chief whip this year?

Answer: My advice to my successor is give it your best shot at all time and have fun!